CarFacts Everything 2 Wheel...
Here on the carfacts Motorcycle page you will find everything you will need on Motorcycles from the Smallest to the Biggest bikes out there. Carfacts, Motorcycle—Facts There are over 275 models of new motorcycles for sale on the U.S. market this year. Beyond that impressive number, there are thousands of models of used bikes for sale throughout the country at any given moment. The fast-paced world of motorcycling beckons as one of opportunity, thrills, freedom and fun. And the sheer number of motorcycle classes—sport, dual sport, sport-touring, touring, cruiser, standard, motocross, trials, enduro, ATV, dirt—means consumers are certain to find machines that suit their riding preferences, as well as their bank accounts.
Prepare your motorcycle Get a windshield. Many think a windshield spoils the beauty of the bike and gets in the way of enjoying the wind in your hair. However, riding in 20 degree temperatures with severe wind chill factors may make you change your mind about getting that windshield. Take my advice and get a windshield. Make sure your battery is up to the task Many motorcycle batteries won't last more than two years. Winter riding puts even more strain on a battery. Use a product like Battery Tender to keep it charged. Use proper oil. Usually 10W - 40 weight oil designed for motorcycles is sufficient. Check your coolant. If you have a liquid-cooled bike, be sure that the reading on the anti-freeze is sufficient for the temperatures you expect. Inspect your bike mechanically. Make sure the bike has been thoroughly inspected for any mechanical problems. There is nothing more frustrating than being stranded in the middle of nowhere in 20 degree temperatures because of a breakdown. Prepare yourself Attitude. Riding a motorcycle in the winter can be a great experience. You are covered up much more than in the summer and better protected. Your overall movement is somewhat more restricted especially if you wear a full-faced helmet. Turning one's neck to see traffic on crossroads can be a bit of a challenge. People do not expect to see motorcycles in the winter so you have to be more careful to make sure that you are seen. If you do any skiing, you'll be familiar with dressing to keep warm and wearing somewhat constricting clothing. It's much the same getting yourself ready to ride in the winter. I have even seen motorcyclists arrive on their bikes at ski resorts. Weather and road conditions. Making a decision to ride in the winter requires that you understand the increased risks over summer riding. If you plan to travel any distance from home, check out the weather forecasts over the route you'll be taking. It may be clear at home but icy and snowy elsewhere on your route. Clothing. You need to cover your body and eliminate places where the cold air can easily enter. Some riders have been known to wear heavy clothing and seal up openings with duct tape. It's better to use modern fabrics designed to seal out the cold and retain body heat. You can wear ski pants but there are products made specifically for motorcyclists. Electrics. Many riders just dress in layers much as a skier does. There comes a time when most will get tired of being so cold and opt for some electric clothing. There are many products out there. The sidebar lists Gerbing and Widder. One usually uses an electric vest and electric gloves. The vest is worn under your jacket. The vest and gloves are interconnected with wires that connect to a thermostat that you usually place in your pocket. One end of the thermostat goes to a dedicated connector that leads to the battery. You do look a bit like the Frankenstein monster with all those cables attached but the upside is that you are toasty warm. You'll find that you start out with full equipment and then gradually start shutting down the electrics as the outside temperature rises. At the end of the day when the temperatures start dropping again, the thermostat is turned up. What do I wear? I wear a full-face Arai Quantum/f helmet. I don either leather chaps by California Creations Leathers or bib overalls by Vetter, leather jacket by Hein Gericke, full length leather boots, one or two pair of full length tube socks. (There are also some special riding socks you can buy for the winter.), and an electric vest and gloves by Widder with an optional pair of electric socks. I ride with a T-shirt covered with a turtleneck sweatshirt. My jacket has a snap-in liner. In extreme low temperatures, I'll wear long underwear. Winter riding can be fun and safe. Just make sure that both you and your motorcycle are prepared.
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